The "12 Melodic Etudes, Op. 113" by Sebastian Lee (1805–1887) are among the standard works for the cello and are still used worldwide in teaching and concert preparation. Sebastian Lee was a German cellist and composer, primarily known for his didactic works. He studied with Friedrich Dotzauer and significantly influenced German cello technique in the 19th century.

The Etudes, Op. 113, were specifically developed to promote musical expressiveness and technical mastery of the cello. They combine melodic lines with practical exercises for different positions, bowing techniques, and phrasing, making them suitable for both advanced students and semi-professional cellists. Unlike many purely technical exercises, Lee's études place particular emphasis on musical interpretation: Each étude can be understood as a small concert piece that trains expression, dynamics, and articulation.